Guy I have a question about shock support. My wife and I are heavier, and I set the air at 50psi when we ride 2 up on my 2005 Ultra. I am leaking air slowly somewhere.....I am thinking about switching out to a set of the premium HD hand adjustable shocks. My question is....will the hand adjustable shocks support our weight better or worse compared to the 50psi on the air shocks? Thanks

 

If you're prepared to buy a set of those shocks I strongly recommend you buy Ohlins instead. HDF sponsor Howard at Motorcycle Metal offers members a discount and will custom build you a pair, complete with the correct springs for the two of you, so they will support your weight AND give you both a great ride!

 

My budget won't allow Ohlins or even progressive right now (my wife has been off work since the first of the year due to surgery) an I see on the forums where I pick up a set of the HD premiums for $200-$240. My main concern is will the premiums support as much or more than the airs at 50psi?

 

I can't confirm that, but they are sold as an upgrade for the touring bikes, so I would expect they will. Hopefully they will have better damping, so will give you both a better ride than with the air shocks.

 

Those that you see on the forums and on Ebay are most likely the 12 inch versions, which will not be much if any better than what you have now. Just not enough travel for us heavier folks and will bottom out. What you might try until your budget allows is to check your air lines and fittings for leaks and change out the shock oil. My wife and I are on the heavier side and even with no leaks at 50 psi the bike still bottomed out until I put on some good shocks.